The Congressional Award Welcomes Seven New Appointees to National Board of Directors

The Congressional Award is pleased to welcome seven newly appointed members to its National Board of Directors, appointed by bipartisan congressional leadership in the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate.

The new National Board members and their respective appointing authorities are:

• Cheryl L. Johnson — appointed by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY)
• Israel “Izzy” Klein — appointed by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY)
• Dr. Jocelynne Rainey — appointed by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY)
• Dr. Elaine Spaull — appointed by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY)
• Karen Talarico — appointed by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY)
• Rev. Dr. Robert M. Waterman — appointed by Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY)
• Matt Zabel — appointed by Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD)

The appointments reflect the bipartisan congressional leadership structure of The Congressional Award and bring to the National Board a diverse range of experience in public service, business, law, philanthropy, education, community leadership, finance, and youth development.

Members of the National Board provide critical leadership and strategic guidance as The Congressional Award expands opportunities for young Americans to develop skills, serve their communities, pursue personal goals and challenge themselves through physical fitness and exploration.

“These seven new appointees bring an exceptional breadth of experience across public service, business, law, philanthropy, community leadership, and youth development,” said Shawn Whitman, Chairman of The Congressional Award Board of Directors. “Their leadership and diverse perspectives will strengthen our Board and help expand the reach and impact of The Congressional Award, ensuring more young Americans have the opportunity to set meaningful goals, serve their communities and achieve their full potential.”

Cheryl L. Johnson served as the 36th Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives and brings decades of experience in congressional operations, institutional leadership, and public service. She currently serves on the Board of the Office of Congressional Conduct.

Israel “Izzy” Klein is Co-Founder and Principal of the Klein/Johnson Group and a longtime government relations and communications strategist with extensive experience navigating complex public policy issues.

Dr. Jocelynne Rainey is President and CEO of Brooklyn Org and a nonprofit executive with more than 25 years of leadership experience in philanthropy, workforce development, and community engagement.

Dr. Elaine Spaull is Executive Director of The Center for Youth in Rochester and a longtime educator, attorney, youth advocate, and civic leader whose career has centered on supporting young people and families.

Karen Talarico is a Congressional Award Gold Medalist and brings extensive experience in corporate audit, financial governance, compliance, and organizational risk management.

Rev. Dr. Robert M. Waterman is the longtime Lead Pastor of Antioch Baptist Church in Brooklyn and a community advocate, educator, and nonprofit leader committed to strengthening youth, families, and neighborhoods.

Matt Zabel is CEO of Mile 27 Partners and a former senior corporate executive whose career spans law, public policy, corporate affairs, and government service, including previous service as Chief of Staff to then-U.S. Senator John Thune.

“We are grateful to congressional leadership for appointing individuals who bring such varied experience and a shared commitment to service,” said Erica Heyse, National Director of The Congressional Award. “We look forward to working with our newest National Board members as we continue strengthening the program and creating opportunities for more young Americans to challenge themselves, serve their communities, and reach their full potential.”